What are the best day trips from San Francisco?

Just want to get out of the city? These are the best day trips from San Francisco. With so much to see and do in the Bay Area, you’ll never run out of new adventures to embark on!

Each of these day trips offers a unique experience, whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or simply a relaxing day by the sea. Check out my other pages if you are looking for some urban hikes in San Francisco or longer hikes in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Short Trips from San Francisco (<1 hours away)

Overlook of Muir Beach San Francisco Marin Day Trips Askmesf — Overlooking Muir Beach from Tennessee Valley in Marin, just north of San Francisco.

Berkeley: Just across the bay, Berkeley offers a vibrant arts scene, great shopping, and delicious dining options.
- Hike Panoramic Hill Charparral Peak Strawberry Canyon Loop
- Get pizza at Cheeseboard or eat at Great China
- Go see a concert at the Greek (on the University of California, Berkeley campus)
Marin/Sausalito/Tiburon: This charming waterfront town is located just across the bay from San Francisco. Explore the art galleries, boutiques, and waterfront restaurants (Sam’s), or rent a bike and ride along the scenic waterfront path back to the city. You can take a ferry from the Ferry Building.
Pacifica/Half Moon Bay: If it’s not foggy, head south along the coast to Half Moon Bay for stunning ocean views, charming boutiques, and fresh seafood. Hop Dogma and Humble Sea are great brewery options. Sam’s Chowder House is a long-time favorite and super packed all the time. Be sure to check out the famous Maverick’s surf spot if conditions are right.
Muir Woods: If you are visiting or hosting friends/family, take a short drive across the Golden Gate Bridge, Muir Woods offers a serene escape into nature with its towering redwood trees and peaceful walking trails – just remember to get a parking pass in advance. If you want to hit up a less touristy spot, go to Big Basin but it is a little further (see below).

Medium Trips from San Francisco (1-2 hours away)

santa cruz boardwalk ride san francisco day trip — *Floating spinny chairs from my last trip to the Santa Cruz Boardwalk!*

Big Basin: A less touristy option is Big Basin Park in the Santa Cruz mountains. This park was heavily impacted by wildfires but still has many beautiful trails.
Point Reyes National Seashore: Pictured above, Point Reyes offers stunning coastal views that rival Ireland, hiking trails, and the chance to see wildlife such as elephant seals and tule elk. Explore the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse and hit up some cheese creameries. Hit up Tomales Bay and The Marshall store for yummy bivalves.
Napa Valley or Sonoma: If you’re a wine enthusiast, a day trip to Napa or Sonoma is a must. Explore the picturesque vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and indulge in the delicious food scene. Some of my favorites include Oxbow Public Market (Lovesky, Model Bakery), Gott’s Roadside, Charter Oak, Station Pizza. Check out my other page for more recs in Napa/Sonoma.
Guerneville: Nestled in the Russian River Valley, Guerneville offers a relaxing retreat with opportunities for canoeing, hiking, and exploring redwood forests.
Santa Cruz: This coastal town boasts a classic boardwalk with amusement park rides, as well as beautiful beaches and lively shopping districts. Verve coffee and Cat & Cloud Coffee are some favorites in Santa Cruz.
Point Reyes National Seashore: Pictured at the top, Point Reyes offers stunning coastal views that rival Ireland, hiking trails, and the chance to see wildlife such as elephant seals and tule elk. Explore the historic Point Reyes Lighthouse and hit up some cheese creameries. Hit up Tomales Bay and The Marshall store for yummy bivalves.
Napa Valley or Sonoma: If you’re a wine enthusiast, a day trip to Napa or Sonoma is a must. Explore the picturesque vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and indulge in the delicious food scene. Some of my favorites include Oxbow Public Market (Lovesky, Model Bakery), Gott’s Roadside, Charter Oak, Station Pizza.

Longer / Overnight trips (3+ hours away)

sea ranch church san francisco day trips askmesf — *The Sea Ranch chapel is a very unconventional church but is very beautiful and an architectural gem.*

Sea Ranch: Known for its stunning coastal architecture and natural beauty, Sea Ranch offers a peaceful retreat with scenic coastal walks and beaches.
Mendocino: Known for its rugged coastline and artistic community, Mendocino is ideal for a scenic drive, art gallery browsing, and coastal hikes.
Big Sur: Big Sur is gorgeous and is a quintessential California coastal stop. You can do a small hike to see a little waterfall as well. Big Little Lies was filmed here. However, make sure the roads are passable!
San Luis Obispo / Paso Robles: San Luis Obispo is a chill collegetown with lots of shops, good food, and great breweries. Paso Robles is another great wine destination – you tend to get more LA folks.
Lake Tahoe: Beautiful in the summer for hiking, cycling, and rafting and also in the winter for snowsports, Tahoe is a lovely getaway only about 3 hours from the city. You can choose to stay in either North or South Lake Tahoe or if you are really bougie, you can stay on the Nevada side in Incline Village.
Yosemite National Park: Yosemite is one of the most popular National Parks for a reason. Make sure to check if you need a reservation / pass if you are planning to visit in the popular months. I enjoy camping and hiking here and of course seeing the redwoods.

Did I miss your favorite day trip? Let me know in the comments!